When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
East Side King
Why East Side King is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
East Side King is a celebrated restaurant in Austin known for its unique blend of Asian street food influenced by Japanese and other Asian cultures, combined with the city's vibrant arts and rock music scene. This establishment offers an inviting ambiance that perfectly suits meetups with friends, featuring a relaxed and joyous atmosphere inspired by Austin's laid-back vibe. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu including globally inspired dishes made with high-quality, ethically raised ingredients such as natural pork and vegetarian-fed pigs without antibiotics or hormones. East Side King has multiple locations, including a notable site on South Lamar, though some locations have closed recently, such as the East 6th St and South Lamar Blvd spots. The restaurant caters to a variety of diets, including vegetarian options, making it suitable for different group preferences. Open primarily for lunch, dinner, brunch, and late-night cravings, it offers seating, alcohol service, takeout, and is wheelchair accessible. The creative culinary experience combined with an artistic, music-infused environment makes East Side King an excellent place to gather, enjoy flavorful dishes and share memorable moments with friends in Austin.
Here's what people think of East Side King
As of recent, East Side King holds a 4.3-star rating based on 255 reviews.
Reviews of East Side King highlight its creative food combinations and the exceptional quality of its Asian-inspired street food, contributing to an overall rating of around 4.3 to 4.6 stars across different platforms. Positive feedback frequently points to the delicious and unique menu offerings, the inviting atmosphere inspired by Asian cultures and rock bands, and the laid-back Austin vibe that creates a fun setting for dining and socializing. Reviewers appreciate the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and the vegetarian-friendly options available, as well as the engaging and friendly staff. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in service and wait times, especially during busy hours. Additionally, the closure of certain locations, such as the South Lamar and East 6th Street venues, has caused some disappointment among patrons who preferred those settings. Despite these concerns, the overall impression is that East Side King remains a beloved destination for flavorful, inventive Asian street food with an artistic flair. Customers often recommend the experience for groups looking to enjoy a distinctive, culturally rich dining environment in Austin.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Yukino Mitani
Their Karaage fried chicken is next level! I really liked their spicy sauce which I felt Thai inspired. It’s got some kinds of herb leaves which gives it a great twist! Definitely will come back when I visit Austin.
Rob Tulloh
Visited the food truck located inside Liberty. We ordered the beets, the brussel sprout salad, chicken, and pork belly. All the food was ordered via the mobile app and we were notified our food was ready by text message. All the food was served in paper trays. Portions were ample and easy to share. We ordered beer from the bar while waited and finished the pints while eating. There is a large outdoor beer garden with plenty of seating at metal picnic tables. There was more food than we could eat so we got take away containers for the leftovers.
Miguel Fernando Asensio
Expensive for a bowl of white rice with fried tofu but the tofu was actually good and tasty. I wish there was less rice and more sauce.
Anna Brody
Got a few orders of the Pork Belly Bao Buns and sadly our group of four were not impressed. The Pork Belly itself was overcooked and the buns were dry and cracking as you bit into them. The sauce was just OK. Underwhelming to say the least. :( The lady working the window was very kind and we did enjoy the outdoor food court atmosphere.
Fernando Devora
The food was really good!! I had the fried chicken sandwich, and the fried beets. The chicken was bigger than the bun, which was a huge plus! I love whenever that happens. Beets were cooked perfectly and paired extremely well with the spicy mayo. I will definitely try this place again next time im at High Noon.
How to reach East Side King
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Website: None
Why rally at East Side King with your friends?
East Side King is an exceptional spot to gather with friends or family because it offers a unique blend of an inviting social atmosphere and innovative, globally inspired food that sparks conversation and enjoyment. Located in Austin, this business is known for its Asian street food flare fused with local Austin culture, making it both a culinary delight and a reflection of the city’s laid-back, fun-loving vibe. Whether you’re meeting up for lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite, East Side King’s menu—with its use of all-natural pork and high-quality ingredients—is a crowd-pleaser, including options accommodating vegetarian diets. The establishment’s vibrant, informal atmosphere combined with its award-winning food creates an ideal setting for friends to relax and connect over shared plates. Moreover, its seating and takeout options provide flexibility for groups of various sizes. This place stands out for those looking to rally somewhere that blends culinary adventure, comfort, and the dynamic social energy Austin is known for, making it a destination that turns a simple meetup into a memorable experience.
What kind of dining experience and food does East Side King offer?
East Side King specializes in Japanese and Asian fusion street food, featuring dishes that are creative, flavorful, and rooted in quality. The cuisine is globally influenced with a strong emphasis on Japanese street food classics reimagined with local and fresh ingredients, including 100% vegetarian-fed pork raised without antibiotics and hormones. The menu emphasizes bold flavor combinations—think spicy pork buns, inventive ramen bowls, and savory small plates—that appeal to diverse palates. It also caters to vegetarians, so groups with mixed dietary preferences won't be left out. The venue operates both as a brick-and-mortar restaurant and a food truck, giving options in setting and service style. With meals served throughout the day including lunch, dinner, brunch, and late-night, East Side King accommodates a range of social occasions. The approachable price point ensures it's accessible for group outings without compromising on the quality or uniqueness of the food, making it a lively culinary adventure perfect for meetups.
How does East Side King accommodate different group sizes and social needs?
East Side King is well-suited for groups because it offers ample seating with a capacity that supports large gatherings, reportedly up to 500 people at its events. The space encourages social dining styles such as sharing and tasting multiple dishes, fostering interaction among friends or family. Whether your group is small and intimate or larger and more lively, the restaurant’s setup is flexible enough to accommodate your needs. The availability of gift cards and takeout options also means groups can plan meetups with food either on-site or elsewhere, letting guests customize their experience. Serving alcohol adds to the social ambiance, providing a casual, fun backdrop to conversations and celebration. Accessibility features ensure that everyone in the group can comfortably participate. The combination of these factors makes East Side King a thoughtfully designed venue for diverse social meetups, whether casual catch-ups or more festive occasions.
What makes East Side King’s atmosphere and location ideal for a group meetup?
Located in Austin’s vibrant cultural scene, the East Side King setting carries a personality that feels both urban and welcoming. Its association with rock bands, art, and the city’s laid-back vibe contributes to an energized yet comfortable environment perfect for gathering friends. The interior and outdoor spaces blend casual seating with an artistic flair, inviting patrons to linger and enjoy each other's company. Its location on South Lamar Boulevard, a popular corridor with easy access and nearby spots for post-meal plans, increases its appeal for a meetup destination. Extended hours from late morning into the evening—sometimes as late as 10 p.m.—mean groups can plan meetups that fit varying schedules, including late-night hangouts. The combination of location, ambiance, and hour flexibility makes East Side King a natural choice to rally friends for an easy-going yet spirited social gathering.
What activities can you do at East Side King during a group meetup?
While primarily a dining destination, East Side King hosts and supports activities that enhance the group meetup experience. These include enjoying curated menus inspired by Japanese street food that can turn your meal into an exploratory culinary event. The restaurant’s connection to music and art means it often aligns with or is part of local cultural happenings, providing opportunities for guests to engage with Austin’s creative scene either in or around the venue. For larger parties or special occasions, East Side King can accommodate private events or celebrations, making it a versatile choice beyond casual dining. Ordering from the diverse menu allows groups to share plates, sparking lively conversation and mutual discovery of new favorites. Whether it’s catching up over innovative food, sampling craft drinks, or celebrating a special occasion, East Side King offers the kind of lively, communal atmosphere that transforms routine meetups into memorable experiences.
Why is East Side King perfect for a meet-up centered around food exploration and fun?
East Side King’s reputation for inventive fusion cuisine combined with its dedication to quality ingredients makes it an exciting venue for friends who enjoy food exploration. The menu showcases a mix of bold, spicy, and savory dishes that appeal to adventurous eaters and those seeking comfort food alike, making group meals engaging rather than predictable. The restaurant’s ties to local art and music culture enhance the vibe, turning a meal into a multisensory experience. With its casual yet trendy environment, East Side King encourages informal, spontaneous fun and interaction, avoiding the stiffness of more formal dining venues. Its affordability paired with the uniqueness of its dishes makes it an excellent choice for groups wanting to spend quality time together without a hefty price tag. Overall, East Side King provides a dynamic atmosphere where food discovery and social connection are equally celebrated, perfect for gatherings that prioritize both taste and enjoyment.
How does East Side King support dietary preferences and inclusive group dining?
East Side King offers a menu that is notably vegetarian friendly, an important factor for many groups balancing different dietary needs. This inclusivity ensures that vegetarian guests have delicious options so no one feels limited during the meetup. The use of all-natural and responsibly sourced ingredients speaks to the establishment’s commitment to quality and health-conscious dining, enhancing the appeal for those mindful of food origins or dietary impact. The diverse menu allows the group to customize orders easily, supporting shared plates and variety, which is ideal for communal dining. This flexibility means East Side King can satisfy varying tastes and preferences within a group, further encouraging an inclusive, welcoming experience where everyone enjoys the meal. Such attention to diverse dietary needs tightens the social bonds of the group by ensuring food is shared and enjoyed by all.
What practical considerations make East Side King a hassle-free spot for group meetups?
From a logistical standpoint, East Side King simplifies group gatherings through multiple amenities and operational features. The availability of seating and takeout gives groups the freedom to dine in comfort or pick up food to enjoy elsewhere. Extended operating hours cover a wide range of scheduling preferences, accommodating weekday lunches, weekend dinners, or late-night cravings. The restaurant serves alcohol and offers gift cards, adding layers of convenience for celebrations or gifting among friends. Wheelchair accessibility ensures it can welcome guests with mobility challenges without barriers. Located in a well-known Austin neighborhood, it is easily accessible via car or public transit, easing arrival and departure for groups. These practical benefits, coupled with a welcoming atmosphere and flexible service style, ensure East Side King is user-friendly for successful and enjoyable group meetups.
What do reviews and local reputation say about East Side King’s suitability for group gatherings?
East Side King holds consistently positive reviews that underscore its food quality, atmosphere, and friendly service as major draws for patrons. With an overall rating around 4.3 stars from hundreds of reviewers, the consensus is that the place delivers a satisfying and distinctive dining experience. Guests often highlight the unique Asian fusion dishes and lively ambiance as reasons they return, frequently praising it as a great spot for casual social meals. The restaurant’s acknowledgment through awards such as the Travelers’ Choice highlights its standing within the Austin culinary scene. Many reviewers mention the welcoming vibe and the ability to comfortably handle groups, which aligns with its known capacity and event hosting capabilities. This strong local reputation reassures anyone considering East Side King as a gathering place that it’s well-equipped and appreciated for group meetups centered on quality food and conviviality.